LAM09

Emerson and Abraham could be playing for starting berths on Saturday. They need to perform

If they can't count either, we might be in trouble. [emoji1]

We offer the money, he's ours. Couldn't be simpler for the board

Crazy to think this could actually happen

Higher wage would be the only true motive right now

We could facilitate his wish

I wouldn't see Butland as a stop gap, but rather a stupid risk, after going all out and failing to sign Allison.

He doesn't want to through £30m~ down the drain. Just a shame there aren't more suitors, so we could sell him elsewhere instead of him seemingly getting his way

The board aren't going to trigger his clause with 3 days left to go. Butland seems like a signing the board would push for

Petulance more often than not

A number of the players you mentioned couldn't make the step up. Willian wasn't exactly dazzling at Shakhtar before joining; Oscar came from the Brazilian league and played something like 65+ games in his first season, going without a break for 3 seasons IIRC. Salah & De Bruyne were given the chance to mature and grow in the right set up, which was something Mourinho wouldn't allow to happen under his watch. There are several reasons why players fail to produce or improve their game/make the step up, but most of the time, it comes down to the individuals mentality. That sentiment rings especially true with Morata. Everything about his demeanour screams out someone that expects things to magically click/entitled rather than that of a player who wants to better himself to suit the demands of a new league or improve parts of his overall game. I personally think he's nothing more than an impact sub and his previous clubs were aware of that.

Continuing where he left off in the Prem

Easier to write him off when he makes the odd mistake rather than saving us from an embarrassment today.

There's no in-between with him. Either goes crazy or couldn't give a shit. That can't be acceptable with a back four

I honestly can't see how his fortune will change. He clearly has no desire to better himself, in any way shape or form. I'd be extremely disappointed if he go a starting berth next Saturday.

If Sarri can't see the obvious once Giroud & Michy come back, we're in trouble.

De Bryune is the only name that walks into their XI. Pep chose to start Bravo

Our two best players aren't in our squad and we have Morata up front

Time to make some changes

Showing almost no attacking intent. 6 subs allowed, so I would expect a few changes at HT.

That's what happens without a defensive minded midfielder. So much space

He's a notable set down compared to Thibo. I honestly hope we go for someone that has potential to grow here such as Strakosha.

This deal makes too much sense at this point. Should have left Willian out of the squad for precaution.

Pleased with the line up for the most part. Just surprised Emerson isn't even in the squad. Big game for Hudson-Odoi, regardless of whether you see this as a glorified friendly or not.

He got 14 last season for an average Lazio side, so I'm sure he could hit 20~ on a regular basis at a bigger club. The change in fee on a weekly basis is the only downer in the saga. Lazio are either using Pogba as a marker or being greedy like Torino were last summer. Look how that turned out